Sam Houston State UniversicyFebruary 1, 2016 

A Member ofThe Texas State University System 

DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS 

Dr. John Wilson 

Department of Physics 

Sam Houston State University 

Box 2267 

Huntsville, Texas 77341-2267 

936 294-1607 

jfw008@shsu.edu 

U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations 

West Building Ground Floor, Room w12-140 

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE. 

Washington, DC 20590 

Electronically Submitted by the Federal Docket Management System (FDMS) 

Re: Exemption request from several regulatory requirements to permit the use of Unmanned Aircraft 

Systems (UAS) that weigh less than 55 lbs. in Sam Houston State University for research by the 

Department of Physics and Department of Agricultural Sciences & Engineering Technology 

(SHSUPHY). 

Dear Sir or Madam: 

Pursuant to FAA Section 333 ofP.L. 112-95 333 and 14 C.F.R. Sec. 11.81, Sam Houston State 

University Department of Physics (SHSUPHY) requests the exemption from several sections ofthe Title 

14 ofthe Code of Federal Regulations (C.F.R.) in order to carry out research within the Sam Houston 

State University Department of Physics and Department of Agricultural Sciences & Engineering 

Technology using small, weighing less than 55 lbs, Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). Current 

research investigates thermal imaging for the monitoring of agriculture crop irrigation monitoring in 

Texas. We propose this exemption in the interest of providing increased safety in the use ofUAS in 

research for precision agriculture. We are pursuing the request for exemption in accordance with the 

intent of Congress in Section 333 ofthe FAA Modernization and Reform Act of20121 to permit the use 

of safe systems in the national airspace in advance of the issuance of final regulations for the general use 

ofUAS.2 The FAA has previously granted such relief in Exemptions No. 11136, 11166, 11170, 11177, 

11192,11193, 11194, 12098,and 13696. 

1 P.L. 112-95, 126 Stat II , Fehruary 14,2012, 2 Section 333(b) (2) anticipates that the Federal Administration Authority (FAA) may provide a certificate waiver when it finds that a specific UAS with 

consideration for its size. weight, airworthiness, and speed as well as its proximity to areas of high populations and airports. The FAA also includes in its 

approval process whether or not the UAS as specified in the exemption request may result in line of sight operations that might result in hazards to those 

participating in the use of the: UAS, a treat to national security, or public safety. 

Sam Houston State University is .an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Institution 

Huntsville, Texas 77341-2267 • 936.294.1601 • Fax 936.294.1585 
This petition for exemption requests authorization for the operation in remote rural and agricultural areas 

similar to such areas described in Exemptions No. 11136, 11166, 11170, 11177, 11192, 11193, 11194, 

12098, and 13696. These areas fall generally within the conditions of the blanket COA provided by the 

333 Exemption. 

Moreover, this petition for exemption requests authorization to train people in the use ofUAS through 

educational outreach to those involved in k-12 agriculture, people involved in forestation management, 

and people active in various agricultural areas. Educational outreach requires the Pilot in Command 

(PIC) teach an unlicensed individual the flight operational procedures for the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus 

before the individual or individuals obtain FAA certification. During training, only individuals who 

possess a current FAA third-class airman medical certificate or a valid U.S. driver's license issued by a 

state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, a territory, a possession, or the Federal government will be 

permitted to operate the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus. The properly certified PIC as well as a Visual 

Observer (VO) must stand alongside the student when an FAA uncertified student operates the aircraft. 

SHSUPHY will use UASs operations below a 400ft. altitude in specific restricted access areas in either 

Class G airspace or in airspace with APC permission using SHSUPHY trained pilots in visual line of 

site for both the Pilot in Command (PIC) and Visual Observer(s) (VO). These restrictions for operations 

cohere with the limits of operations in recently granted Exemptions and the February 15, 2015 UAS 

NPRM. The UAS employed by SHSUPHY do not pose a safety threat to the NAS, ground personnel, or 

national security as they weigh less than 55 lb. and fly at speeds less than 100 mph below 400ft. AGL. 

Therefore, the Sam Houston State University Department of Physics (SHSUPHY) requests exemption 

from Part 21 Subpart H; and Sections 91.203 (a) (1), 45.23 (b), 91.7 (a), 91.9, 61.113, 61.133, 91.109, 

91.119, 91.121, 91.151, and (91.401- 91.417) Subpart E, ofTitle 14, Code ofFederal Regulations (14 

CFR) to allow the operation for the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus for Sam Houston State University 

research. 

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) 

The DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus is an unmanned aircraft system, multi rotor battery operated UAS, with 

a gross weight under 55 lb. It takes off and lands vertically and can hover in a single position. 

DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus 

• The DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus carries an on-board camera that transmits full color and high 

definition video and photos to the ground station control station for both the Pilot in Command's 

(PIC) safe operation of the aircraft and the constant monitoring of its position in flight. 

exemption request may result in line of sight operations that might result in hazards to those participating in the use ofthe 

UAS, a treat to national security, or public safety. 

Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics 2 
• The UAS also carries an on-board computer with a GPS navigation and location system. It 

receives flight control signals from the ground station to guide and direct the aircraft. 

• The 2.4GHz WI-FI on-board radio constantly transmits live video and flight data from the onboard telemetry system through the Range Extender to the DJI Vision Ap on the smartphone for 

the PIC to monitor both position and flight communications. Before takeoff and when the GPS 

navigation system finds 6 or more GPS satellites the Flight Control System locks its home points 

and the Rear LED Flight Indicators blink a slow green indicating aircraft may takeoff and follow 

normal flight. 

• The on-board telemetry system continually transmits the on-board computer flight data through 

the on-board radio transmitter. Data includes compass direction of flight, altitude above ground 

level (AGL), both vertical and horizontal speed, and the direction back to the point oftakeoff. 

Ground Station Control System 

• The PIC controls the aircraft through the joy stick control station to maintain full control of the 

aircraft for takeoff, flight, and landing. 

• The PIC through the 5.8GHz ground control station radio transmitter controls the aircraft in 

flight from takeoff to landing. 

• The DJI Vision App for the Smartphone attached to the ground control station displays the real 

time telemetry data for camera pitch, flight altitude and radar function, position, speed, Wi-Fi 

signal intensity, battery charge level, GPS status, micro-SD status, Range Extender Battery 

Level, and camera settings. 

• A Visual Observer (VO) visually tracks the UAS in flight to provide the PIC additional flight 

information for aircraft horizontal and vertical position. 

Pilot in Command (PIC) and Visual Observer (VO) 

Both the PIC and the VO satisfy the requirements in FAA Policy N8900.227 Section 16 for personnel 

qualifications. In addition, the PIC and VO receive training for the maintenance of the DJI Phantom 2 

Vision Plus as part of their comprehensive UAS training. 

The operation of the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus 2 with a weight below 55 lb. by a fully qualified flight 

crew and rigid operation following the 8900.227 guidelines with all the restrictions provided above 

gives the FAA complete confidence that flight operations have a level of safety equivalent or greater 

than a manned aircraft would have performing the same operation. 

Intended Use 

The requested exemption will permit SHSUPHY to pursue research, support university instruction and 

training for precision agriculture and similar uses for UAS, support educational outreach to k-12 

engagement in agriculture, and support university extension and training such as 

to those actively engaged in agriculture all of which is for the public good. This petition requests 

authorization to conduct research flights consistent with the terms of this petition and the SHSUPHY 

Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics 3 
operations manual, the operation manuals for each ofthe UAS models used by SHSUPHY, the 

SHSUPHY operator training manual, and the SHSUPHY manual for maintenance and inspection all of 

which are available to the public. 

SHSUPHY requests an exemption for research and development with UAS, for informational and 

training seminars with those engaged in agriculture and agriculture education, for forestry plant and 

animal research, and for environmental research all for the public good. The UAS examines means to 

monitor animal behavior including body temperature and grazing patterns and will employ thermal 

sensors to monitor body temperature for early detection of disease. The 

UAS employs cameras to examine grazing patterns for more effective animal feed. Further, the UAS 

studies soil and plant management to examine water usage and irrigation, turf and crop 

fertilization, weed control, insecticide and pesticide effectiveness, soil degradation, and crop yields. The 

UAS employs special sensors to measure gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrogen as well as 

the monitoring of environmental concerns and waste management. 

The capability for the UAS to capture low altitude visual, thermal, and spectral imagery from a variety 

of angles gives more effective images than possible with ground based systems. Further, the use ofUAS 

rather than manned aircraft provides the same results at significantly lower cost, at less risk for those on 

board manned aircraft, and at less risk for ground property and people. 

The Sam Houston State University Department of Physics and Department of Agricultural Sciences & 

Engineering Technology would like to include education and training for our students, in outreach to 

those involved in agriculture, forestation, and similar pursuits, and in outreach to those involved in k-12 

agriculture. 

Educational outreach requires the Pilot in Command (PIC) teach an unlicensed individual the flight 

operational procedures for the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus before the individual or individuals obtain 

FAA certification. During training, only individuals who possess a current FAA third-class airman 

medical certificate or a valid U.S. driver's license issued by a state, the District of Columbia, Puerto 

Rico, a te1Titory, a possession, or the Federal government will be permitted to operate the DJI Phantom 2 

Vision Plus. The properly certified PIC as well as a Visual Observer (VO) must stand alongside the 

student when an FAA uncertified student operates the aircraft. 

Public Safety 

We propose this exemption in the interest of providing increased safety in the use ofUAS in research for 

precision agriculture and similar activities. We are pursuing the request for exemption in accordance 

with the intent of Congress in Section 333 ofthe FAA Modernization and Reform Act of20123 to 

permit the use of safe systems in the national airspace in advance of the issuance of final regulations for 

3 P.L. 112-95, 126 Stat II, February 14,2012. 

Sam Houston State University Department of Physics 4 
the general use ofUAS.4 The FAA has previously granted such relief in Exemptions No. 11136, 11166, 

11170,11177,11192,11193, 11194,and 12098. 

UAS employed by SHSUPHY do not pose a safety threat to the NAS, ground personnel, or national 

security as they weigh less than 55 lb., fly at speeds less than 100 mph. and at altitudes below 400ft. 

AGL. SHSUPHY operation ofUAS requires access to remote farmlands, forests, and waterways which 

in no way threatens public safety, ground personnel, and national security. 

The SHSUPHY operations manual outlines required procedures for safety, aircraft and systems 

inspection, and aircraft and systems maintenance. SHSUPHY restricts UAS operations in Class G 

airspace to altitudes below 400 ft., five miles or greater from an airport or coordinated with ATC, and 

not without the consent of the property owner where flights are carried out. 

SHSUPHY will conduct all flights during daylight hours according to VFR rules with both a UAS 

trained pilot and observer who received training according to the SHSUPHY manual. SHSUPHY UAS 

maintain fail safe features to automatically and slowly return to the home point and land automatically in 

the event of an emergency. 

SHSUPHY UAS maintain fail safe features to automatically and slowly return to the home point and 

land automatically to assure aircraft safety in the event of Command and Control link failure. The 

SHSUPHY operations manual outlines risk factors for weather, obstacles in flight path, and unexpected 

events. 

The UAS operated by SHSUPHY use batteries for power, do not use combustible jet fuel, have no 

people on board, weigh less than 55 lb., are less than 2m in size; operate at AGL less than 400ft., 

operate at speeds less than 1 00 mph, and maneuver more readily than larger aircraft all of which 

provides greater operating personnel safety and public safety. The extremely small payloads carried by 

UAS and flight times less than 30 minutes gives no risk or extremely minimum risk for national 

security. SHSUPHY plans to offer training for UAS operation, maintenance, and safety which 

significantly reduces risk and enhances operator, operating personnel safety. 

333 Exemption Request 

The Sam Houston State University Department of Physics request for 333 Exemption resembles that of 

several requests for similar systems, uses, and operations and granted earlier by the FAA, and this 

request will not set a precedent. 

4 Section 333(b) (2) anticipates that the Federal Administration Authority (FAA) may provide a certificate waiver when it 

finds that a specific UAS with consideration for its size, weight, airworthiness, and speed as well as its proximity to areas of 

high populations and airp011s. The FAA also includes in its approval process whether or not the UAS as specified in the 

exemption request may result in line of sight operations that might result in hazards to those participating in the use of the 

UAS, a treat to national security, or public safety. 

Sam Houston State University Department of Physics 5 
FAA reasons for granting Exemption Nos. 11062, 11109, 11112, 11213, 11624, and 13696 fit the Sam 

Houston State University Department of Physics request for exemption. Granting Sam Houston State 

University Department of Physics and exemption is in the public interest. 

Granting the Sam Houston State University Department of Physics requests for exemption benefits the 

public good at equivalent or greater safety than required in CFR. 

Exemption is Requested from the Following Regulations 

The supplement contains the proposed safety for each regulation for requested exemption. 

Regulation Location 

14 CFR 45.23 (b) Supplement, Page 1 

14 CFR 61.113,61.133 Supplement, Page 1 

14 CFR Part 21 Subpart H 14 CFR 91.203 (a) (1) Supplement, Page 4 

14 CFR 91.7 (a) Supplement, Page 6 

14 CFR 91.9 Supplement, Page 6 

14 CFR 91.1 09 Supplement, Page 7 

14 CFR 91.119 Supplement, Page 7 

14 CFR 91.121 Supplement, Page 8 

14 CFR 91.151 Supplement, Page 9 

14 CFR Subpart E (91.40 1 - 91.417) Supplement, Page 9 

FAA Policy 8900.227 Paragraph 16(c) (4) and Paragraph 16(e) (1) Supplement, Page 10 

I will modify or alter any section of this request for exemption in order to provide an equivalent level of 

safety. Please let me know of any additional information you need or for further explanation of our 

request. I am the Point of Contact for this exemption request. 

Sincerely, 

Department of Physics 

Sam Houston State University 

Box 2267 

Huntsville, Texas 77341-2267 

936 294-1607 

jfw008@shsu.edu 

Sam Houston State University Department of Physics 6 
Supplement 

Request for Exemption Equivalent Safety Level 

I, John Wilson, Professor ofPhysics Sam Houston State University Depat1ment of Physics, request 

exemption from the following regulations that may apply to the operation ofDJI Phantom 2 Vision 

Plus by the Sam Houston State University Department of Physics and Department of Agricultural 

Sciences & Engineering Technology (SHSUPHY). 

14 C.F.R. 45.23 (b). Marking of the Aircraft 

The regulation says: 

"(a) Each operator of an aircraft must display on that aircraft marks consisting of the Roman capital 

letter "N" (denoting United States registration) followed by the registration number of the aircraft. Each 

suffix letter used in the marks displayed must also be a Roman capital letter. 

(b) When marks include only the Roman capital letter "N" and the registration number is displayed on 

limited, restricted or light-sport category aircraft or experimental or provisionally certificated aircraft, 

the operator must also display on that aircraft near each entrance to the cabin, cockpit, or pilot station, in 

letters not less than 2 inches nor more than 6 inches high, the words "limited," "restricted," "light-sport," 

"experimental," or "provisional," as applicable." 

While the UAS will not require an airworthiness certificate, an exemption is required as the DJI 

Phantom 2 Vision Plus does not have an entrance to the aircraft or to the pilot station where the 

"Aircraft Marks" may be placed. Further, its side does not permit two-inch lettering. Therefore, 

"Aircraft Marks" must be placed on the fuselage to permit compliance with 45.29 (f). Such placement 

on the fuselage in compliance with 45.29 (f) provides an equivalent safety level, and the Pilot in 

Command, Observers, and others using the UAS may see the identification of the UAS. 

The FAA issued exemptions to this regulation in Exemption Nos. 8738, 10700, 10167, and 10167 A. 

14 CFR 61.113 Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in Command and 61.133 Commercial 

pilot privileges and limitations 

14 CFR 61.113 Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in Command says: 

"61.113 Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command. 

(a) Except as provided in paragraphs (b) through (h) of this section, no person who holds a private pilot 

certificate may act as pilot in command of an aircraft that is carrying passengers or proper1y for 

compensation or hire; nor may that person, for compensation or hire, act as pilot in command of an 

aircraft. 

Sam Houston State University Department of Physics 
(b) A private pilot may, for compensation or hire, act as pilot in command of an aircraft in connection 

with any business or employment if: 

(1) The flight is only incidental to that business or employment; and 

(2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or property for compensation or hire. 

(c) A private pilot may not pay less than the pro rata share of the operating expenses of a flight with 

passengers, provided the expenses involve only fuel, oil, airport expenditures, or rental fees. 

(d) A private pilot may act as pilot in command of a charitable, nonprofit, or community event flight 

described in §91 .146, if the sponsor and pilot comply with the requirements of §91 .146. 

(e) A private pilot may be reimbursed for aircraft operating expenses that are directly related to search 

and location operations, provided the expenses involve only fuel, oil, airport expenditures, or rental fees, 

and the operation is sanctioned and under the direction and control of: 

(1) A local, State, or Federal agency; or 

(2) An organization that conducts search and location operations. 

(f) A private pilot who is an aircraft salesman and who has at least 200 hours of logged flight time may 

demonstrate an aircraft in flight to a prospective buyer. 

(g) A private pilot who meets the requirements of §61.69 may act as a pilot in command of an aircraft 

towing a glider or unpowered ultralight vehicle. 

(h) A private pilot may act as pilot in command for the purpose of conducting a production flight test in 

a light-sport aircraft intended for certification in the light-sport category under §21.190 ofthis chapter, 

provided that-

(1) The aircraft is a powered parachute or a weight-shift-control aircraft; 

(2) The person has at least 100 hours of pilot-in-command time in the category and class of aircraft 

flown; and 

(3) The person is familiar with the processes and procedures applicable to the conduct of production 

flight testing, to include operations conducted under a special flight permit and any associated operating 

limitations." 

14 CFR 61.133 Commercial pilot privileges and limitations says: 

"61.133 Commercial pilot privileges and limitations. 

(a) Privileges-(!) General. A person who holds a commercial pilot certificate may act as pilot in 

command of an aircraft-

(i) Carrying persons or property for compensation or hire, provided the person is qualified in accordance 

with this part and with the applicable parts of this chapter that apply to the operation; and 

(ii) For compensation or hire, provided the person is qualified in accordance with this part and with the 

applicable pm1s of this chapter that apply to the operation. 

(2) Commercial pilots with lighter-than-air category ratings. A person with a commercial pilot 

certificate with a lighter-than-air category rating may-

(i) For an airship-(A) Give flight and ground training in an airship for the issuance of a certificate or 

rating; 

(B) Give an endorsement for a pilot certificate with an airship rating; 

(C) Endorse a student pilot certificate or logbook for solo operating privileges in an airship; 

(D) Act as pilot in command of an airship under IFR or in weather conditions less than the minimum 

prescribed for VFR flight; and 

Sam Houston State University Department of Physics 2 
(E) Give flight and ground training and endorsements that are required for a flight review, an operating 

privilege or recency-of-experience requirements of this part. 

(ii) For a balloon-( A) Give flight and ground training in a balloon for the issuance of a certificate or 

rating; 

(B) Give an endorsement for a pilot certificate with a balloon rating; 

(C) Endorse a student pilot certificate or logbook for solo operating privileges in a balloon; and 

(D) Give ground and flight training and endorsements that are required for a flight review, an operating 

privilege, or recency-of-experience requirements of this part. 

(b) Limitations. (1) A person who applies for a commercial pilot certificate with an airplane category or 

powered-lift category rating and does not hold an instrument rating in the same category and class will 

be issued a commercial pilot certificate that contains the limitation, "The carriage of passengers for hire 

in (airplanes) (powered-lifts) on cross-country flights in excess of 50 nautical miles or at night is 

prohibited." The limitation may be removed when the person satisfactorily accomplishes the 

requirements listed in §61.65 of this part for an instrument rating in the same category and class of 

aircraft listed on the person's commercial pilot certificate. 

(2) If a person who applies for a commercial pilot certificate with a balloon rating takes a practical test 

in a balloon with an airborne heater-

(i) The pilot certificate will contain a limitation restricting the exercise of the privileges of that 

certificate to a balloon with an airborne heater. 

(ii) The limitation specified in paragraph (b)(2)(i) of this section may be removed when the person 

obtains the required aeronautical experience in a gas balloon and receives a logbook endorsement from 

an authorized instructor who attests to the person's accomplishment of the required aeronautical 

experience and ability to satisfactorily operate a gas balloon. 

(3) If a person who applies for a commercial pilot certificate with a balloon rating takes a practical test 

in a gas balloon-

(i) The pilot certificate will contain a limitation restricting the exercise of the privileges of that 

certificate to a gas balloon. 

(ii) The limitation specified in paragraph (b)(3)(i) of this section may be removed when the person 

obtains the required aeronautical experience in a balloon with an airborne heater and receives a logbook 

endorsement from an authorized instructor who attests to the person's accomplishment of the required 

aeronautical experience and ability to satisfactorily operate a balloon with an airborne heater." 

We propose that the Pilot in Command (PIC) must either 

1. Have a Private, Recreational, or Sport Pilot Certificate issued by the FAA and have as a 

minimum conducted three takeoffs (launch) and three landings (recovery) in the DJI Phantom 2 

Vision Plus within the previous 90 days which is consistent with Exemption Nos. 11213, 11624, 

and 13696., or 

2. Satisfy the requirements of 8900.227 ~ 16( c )(2)( c) which says: 

"(c) Operations without a pilot certificate may be allowed when all ofthe following conditions are met: 

• The PIC has successfully completed, at a minimum, FAA private pilot ground instruction and passed 

the FAA Private Pilot written examination or FAA-recognized equivalents. (Airman Test Reports are 

valid for the 24 calendar-month period preceding the month the exam was completed, at which time the 

instruction and written examination must be repeated.) 

• Operations are during daylight hours. 

Sam Houston State University Department of Physics 3 
• The operation is conducted in a sparsely populated location. 

• Operations are approved and conducted solely within visual line-of-sight in Class G airspace. 

• Visual line-of-sight operations are conducted no further than 'h NM laterally from the UAS pilot and at 

an altitude of no more than 400 feet AGL at all times. Refer to Appendix A for the visual line-of-sight 

definition. 

• Operations are conducted no closer than 5 NM from any FAA-designated airport or heliport other than 

the airport from which the aircraft is operating. 

• The operation is conducted from a privately owned airfield, military installation, or off-airpm1 

location." 

Because there are no available means such that the Pilot in Command of a UAS may obtain the 

experience in the same category and class so that the Pilot in Command may apply for a private pilot's 

license, we propose to create an equivalent safety level through requiring the Pilot in Command 

complete at the minimum of an FAA Private, Recreational, or Sport Pilot ground instruction and pass 

the FAA Private, Recreational, or Sport Pilot written examination in addition to finishing the Private, 

Recreational, or Sport Pilot requirements which is consistent with Exemption Nos. 11213, 11624, and 

13696 .. As the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus does not carry people or property, these requirements provide 

equivalent or better safety level as intended in 61.113 (b). 

The Sam Houston State University Department of Physics and Department of Agricultural Sciences & 

Engineering Technology would like to include education and training for our students, in outreach to 

those involved in agriculture, forestation, and similar pursuits, and in outreach to those involved in k-12 

agriculture. 

Educational outreach requires the Pilot in Command (PIC) teach an unlicensed individual the flight 

operational procedures for the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus before the individual or individuals obtain 

FAA certification. During training, only individuals who possess a current FAA third-class airman 

medical certificate or a valid U.S. driver's license issued by a state, the District of Columbia, Puerto 

Rico, a territory, a possession, or the Federal government will be permitted to operate the DJI Phantom 2 

Vision Plus. The properly certified PIC as well as a Visual Observer (VO) must stand alongside the 

student when an FAA uncertified student operates the aircraft. 

14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H: Airworthiness Certificates 14 C.F.R. 91.203 (a) (1) 

14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H: Airworthiness Certificates provides the procedures for the granting of 

airworthiness certificates according to FAR 91.203 (a) (1).1t says: 

"91.203 Civil aircraft: Certifications required. 

(a) Except as provided in §91.715, no person may operate a civil aircraft unless it has within it the 

following: 

(I) An appropriate and current airworthiness certificate. Each U.S. airwm1hiness certificate used to 

comply with this subparagraph (except a special flight permit, a copy ofthe applicable operations 

specifications issued under §21.197( c) of this chapter, appropriate sections of the air can·ier manual 

Sam Houston State University Department of Physics 4 

•' 
required by parts 121 and 135 of this chapter containing that portion of the operations specifications 

issued under §21.197(c), or an authorization under §91.611) must have on it the registration number 

assigned to the aircraft under part 47 of this chapter. However, the airworthiness certificate need not 

have on it an assigned special identification number before 10 days after that number is first affixed to 

the aircraft. A revised airworthiness certificate having on it an assigned special identification number, 

that has been affixed to an aircraft, may only be obtained upon application to an FAA Flight Standards 

district office. 

(2) An effective U.S. registration certificate issued to its owner or, for operation within the United 

States, the second copy of the Aircraft registration Application as provided for in §47.31(c), a Certificate 

of Aircraft registration as provided in part 48, or a registration certification issued under the laws of a 

foreign country. 

(b) No person may operate a civil aircraft unless the airworthiness certificate required by paragraph (a) 

of this section or a special flight authorization issued under §91.715 is displayed at the cabin or cockpit 

entrance so that it is legible to passengers or crew. 

(c) No person may operate an aircraft with a fuel tank installed within the passenger compartment or a 

baggage compartment unless the installation was accomplished pursuant to part 43 of this chapter, and a 

copy ofF AA Form 3 3 7 authorizing that installation is on board the aircraft. 

(d) No person may operate a civil airplane (domestic or foreign) into or out of an airport in the United 

States unless it complies with the fuel venting and exhaust emissions requirements of part 34 ofthis 

chapter. 

The petitioner's limited use, proposed operating area, flights below 400 ft. AGL, speeds less than 100 

mph, and distances restricted to Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) satisfy the requirements for an equivalent 

or higher level of safety in Part 11 and Section 333 of the FMRA. The Federal Aviation Act ( 49 U.S. C. 

44 70 1 (f) and Section 3 3 3 of the FMRA give the FAA the authority to exempt aircraft for an 

airworthiness certificate when it considers the weight, size, operational capability, speed, and proximity 

to airports and populated areas for the UAS for which exemption is requested. In all instances proposed 

by the petitioner, examination of these standards show that the UAS operated without an airworthiness 

certificate in the restricted operating area and operating conditions provide an equivalent or higher level 

of safety than for a fixed wing aircraft (fixed wing or rotorcraft) operating with an airworthiness 

certificate. The DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus weighs less than 55 lbs. when fully loaded and as unmanned 

does not carry pilot, aircraft personnel, or other personnel, does not carry flammable liquid fuels or 

explosive materials, and operates exclusively in a limited area of flight. The Pilot in Command and 

Observer(s) closely control and monitor flight operations to assure it operates in compliance with local 

public safety requirements unlike other civil aircraft operations. While these safety enhancements 

currently apply to civil aircraft, their application to the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus provides a 

significantly greater level of safety for the public and for property owners than do conventional 

operations for aircraft operated with airworthiness certificates issued under 14 C.F .R. Part 21, Subpart 

H. Finally, the application of these standards show that the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus does not pose a 

Sam Houston State University Department of Physics 5 
reasonable threat to national security when its weight, size, operational capability, speed, proximity to 

airports and populated areas, and its inability to carry a significant external load are considered. 

14 C.F.R. 91.7(a): Civil aircraft airworthiness 

The regulation says: 

"(a) No person may operate a civil aircraft unless it is in an airworthy condition. 

(b) The pilot in command of a civil aircraft is responsible for determining whether that aircraft is in 

condition for safe flight. The pilot in command shall discontinue the flight when unairworthy 

mechanical, electrical, or structural conditions occur." 

In the event that the FAA grants this exemption, the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus will not require an 

airworthiness certificate, and there will not be an FAA regulatory criteria to determine whether or not 

the aircraft is airworthy. The requirement for a safety check before each flight following the Sam 

Houston State University Department of Physics manual, as well as the size of the aircraft provides an 

equivalent or better safety level than required in the regulation. 

14 CFR 91.9 Civil aircraft flight manual, marking, and placard requirements 

14 CFR 91.9 Civil aircraft flight manual, marking, and placard requirements says: 

"91.9 Civil aircraft flight manual, marking, and placard requirements. 

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (d) ofthis section, no person may operate a civil aircraft without 

complying with the operating limitations specified in the approved Airplane or Rotorcraft Flight 

Manual, markings, and placards, or as otherwise prescribed by the certificating authority of the country 

of registry. 

(b) No person may operate a U.S.-registered civil aircraft-

(1) For which an Airplane or Rotorcraft Flight Manual is required by §21.5 of this chapter unless there is 

available in the aircraft a current, approved Airplane or Rotorcraft Flight Manual or the manual provided 

for in §121.141(b); and 

(2) For which an Airplane or Rotorcraft Flight Manual is not required by §21.5 of this chapter, unless 

there is available in the aircraft a current approved Airplane or Rotorcraft Flight Manual, approved 

manual material, markings, and placards, or any combination thereof. 

(c) No person may operate a U.S.-registered civil aircraft unless that aircraft is identified in accordance 

with part 45 of this chapter." 

Sam Houston State University Department of Physics requests exemption from this regulation and 

proposes that the current and approved DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus operations manual be available to the 

Pilot in Command, Visual Observers, and other operating personnel when the 

Sam Houston State University Department of Physics 6 
aircraft is preparing for flight or in flight. Appendix B below provides the website for download of the 

DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus User Manual Vl.l. 

Earlier, the FAA issued exemptions to this regulation in Exemption Nos. 8607, 8737, 8738, 9299, 

9299A, 9565, 10167, 10167A, 10602, 10700, and 32827. 

14 CFR 91.109 Flight Instruction; Simulated instrument flight and certain flight tests 

14 CFR 91.109 Flight Instruction; Simulated instrument flight and certain flight tests says: 

"91.1 09 Flight instruction; Simulated instrument flight and certain flight tests. 

(a) No person may operate a civil aircraft (except a manned free balloon) that is being used for flight 

instruction unless that aircraft has fully functioning dual controls. However, instrument flight instruction 

may be given in an airplane that is equipped with a single, functioning throwover control wheel that 

controls the elevator and ailerons, in place of fixed, dual controls, when-

(1) The instructor has determined that the flight can be conducted safely; and 

(2) The person manipulating the controls has at least a private pilot certificate with appropriate category 

and class ratings." 

The DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus has only one ground station with a single small hand-held radio 

transmitter and does not offer a second radio transmitter. However, both the Pilot in Command, 

Instructor, and the student can and do operate the controls concurrently which meets the requirements of 

91.1 09 and provides an equivalent safety level. 

14 CFR 91.119 Minimum safe altitudes: General 

14 CFR 91.119 Minimum safe altitudes: General says: 

"Except when necessary for takeoff or landing, no person may operate an aircraft below the following 

altitudes: 

(a) Anywhere. An altitude allowing, if a power unit fails, an emergency landing without undue hazard to 

persons or property on the surface. 

Sam Houston State University Department of Physics 7 
(b) Over congested areas. Over any congested area of a city, town, or settlement, or over any open air 

assembly of persons, an altitude of 1,000 feet above the highest obstacle within a horizontal radius of 

2,000 feet ofthe aircraft. 

(c) Over other than congested areas. An altitude of 500 feet above the surface, except over open water or 

sparsely populated areas. In those cases, the aircraft may not be operated closer than 500 feet to any 

person, vessel, vehicle, or structure. 

(d) Helicopters, powered parachutes, and weight-shift-control aircraft. If the operation is conducted 

without hazard to persons or property on the surface-

(1) A helicopter may be operated at less than the minimums prescribed in paragraph (b) or (c) of this 

section, provided each person operating the helicopter complies with any routes or altitudes specifically 

prescribed for helicopters by the FAA; and 

(2) A powered parachute or weight-shift-control aircraft may be operated at less than the minimums 

prescribed in paragraph (c) of this section." 

The DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus will not operate in populated or congested areas without prior approval. 

We will inform any involved property owner of the risks to people on the ground or property and 

planned flight path and will only operate in the area with the approval of the property owner. The 

aircraft will operate at a low altitude which will permit in the event of a 

power failure an emergency landing without significant risk to people or property on the ground. The 

Pilot in Command will set the return to home emergency feature to assure minimal risk to people and 

property on the ground. Therefore, the low altitude and low speed of the aircraft minimizes the risk to 

people and property on the ground and provides an equivalent or higher level of safety compared to 

manned aircraft which should be taken into account when granting an exemption. 

14 CFR 91.121 Altimeter Settings 

14 CFR 91.121 Altimeter Settings says: 

"Altimeter settings. 

(a) Each person operating an aircraft shall maintain the cruising altitude or flight level ofthat aircraft, as 

the case may be, by reference to an altimeter that is set, when operating-

(!) Below 18,000 feet MSL, to-

(i) The current reported altimeter setting of a station along the route and within 100 nautical miles of the 

aircraft; 

(ii) Ifthere is no station within the area prescribed in paragraph (a)(l)(i) ofthis section, the current 

reported altimeter setting of an appropriate available station; or 

Sam Houston State University Department of Physics 8 
(iii) In the case of an aircraft not equipped with a radio, the elevation of the departure airport or an 

appropriate altimeter setting available before departure ... " 

The DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus flies at altitudes below 400ft. AGL and does not have to maintain 

altitudes to avoid conflict with other aircraft. The on board radio transmitter transmits the aircraft's 

current altitude above the takeoff point to the display screen held by the Pilot in Command and provides 

a continually updated AGL readout. Therefore, the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus provides a safety level 

equivalent to or higher than the regulation requirement. 

14 CFR 91.151 Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions 

14 CFR 91.151 Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions says: 

"(a) No person may begin a flight in an airplane under VFR conditions unless 

(considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enough fuel to fly to the first point of 

intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed-

(1) During the day, to fly after that for at least 30 minutes; or 

(2) At night, to fly after that for at least 45 minutes. 

(b) No person may begin a flight in a rotorcraft under VFR conditions unless 

(considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enough fuel to fly 

to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 20 

minutes." 

The DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus has sufficient battery power to fly 25 minutes. The battery level 

indicator in the DJI Vision Ap turns red when the battery drops to 20% ofully charged to permit the 

Pilot in Command to safely return the aircraft to home. The aircraft will never fly further than 1/4NM3/8NM from the intended landing point, and a fully charged battery assures that we meet the reserve 

energy requirement of this regulation. We request exemption from the word "fuel" and suggest the word 

"energy" in its place which will assure an equivalent or higher safety level. 

14 CFR Subpart E (91.401- 91.417)- Maintenance, Preventive Maintenance, Alterations 

14 CFR Subpart E (91.401 - 91.417)- Maintenance, Preventive Maintenance, Alterations (selections) 

says: 

"91 .403 General. 

(a) The owner or operator of an aircraft is primarily responsible for maintaining that aircraft in an 

airwmihy condition, including compliance with part 39 of this chapter. 

(b) No person may perform maintenance, preventive maintenance, or alterations on an aircraft other than 

as prescribed in this subpart and other applicable regulations, including part 43 

of this chapter ... 

Sam Houston State University Department ofPhysics 9 
91.407 Operation after maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration. 

(a) No person may operate any aircraft that has undergone maintenance, preventive maintenance, 

rebuilding, or alteration unless-

(1) It has been approved for return to service by a person authorized under §43.7 of this chapter .. . 

91.409 Inspections. 

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) ofthis section, no person may operate an aircraft unless, within 

the preceding 12 calendar months, it has had-

(1) An annual inspection in accordance with part 43 of this chapter and has been approved for return to 

service by a person authorized by §4 3. 7 of this chapter. .. " 

The Pilot in Command will perform DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus inspection and maintenance with the 

authorization to return the aircraft to service. The Pre-Flight Checklist in Appendix A requires that the 

Pilot in Command conduct inspections regularly and before each flight to assure that the aircraft is 

airworthy for flight. The PIC does only limited maintenance such as propeller replacement, repairing 

small cracks, updating software and aircraft firmware, and checking electrical connections. All other 

maintenance will be performed by DJI or their appointed facility. The PIC will maintain complete 

records according to 91.41 7. These procedures and the small size of the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus 

assure an equivalent or greater level of safety. 

8900.227 Paragraph 16(c)(4) PIC Medical. And Paragraph 16(e)(l) Observer Medical 

8900.227 Paragraph 16(c)(4) PIC Medical. And Paragraph 16(e)(l) Observer Medical (Selections) says: 

"( 4) PIC Medical. The PIC must maintain, at a minimum, a valid FAA second-class medical certificate 

issued under 14 CFR part 67 or the FAA-recognized equivalent. The second-class medical certificate 

expires at the end of the last day of the 12th month after the month of the date of the examination shown 

on the medical certificate listed in § 61.23 ... 

(1) Medical. All observers must have a valid FAA second-class medical certificate issued under part 

67; an FAA-recognized equivalent is an acceptable means of demonstrating compliance with this 

requirement. The second-class medical certificate expires at the end of the last day ofthe 12th month 

after the month of the date of the examination shown on the medical certificate. Section 91.17 or FAArecognized equivalent applies to all UAS crewmembers." 

We propose that the PIC hold a Private, Recreational, or Spm1 Pilot certificate and a current FAA thirdclass airman medical certificate or a valid U.S. driver's license issued by a state, the District of 

Columbia, Puerto Rico, a territory, a possession, or the Federal government. This proposal is consistent 

with Exemption Nos. 11213, I I 624, and 13696. 

Sam Houston State University Department of Physics 10 
The Sam Houston State University Department of Physics and Department of Agricultural Sciences & 

Engineering Technology would like to include education and training for our students, in outreach to 

those involved in agriculture, forestation, and similar pursuits, and in outreach to those involved in k-12 

agriculture. 

Educational outreach requires the Pilot in Command (PIC) teach an unlicensed individual the flight 

operational procedures for the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus before the individual or individuals obtain 

FAA certification. During training, only individuals who possess a current FAA third-class airman 

medical certificate or a valid U.S. driver's license issued by a state, the District of Columbia, Puerto 

Rico, a territory, a possession, or the Federal government will be permitted to operate the DJI Phantom 2 

Vision Plus. The properly certified PIC as well as a Visual Observer (VO) must stand alongside the 

student when an FAA uncertified student operates the aircraft. 

Sam Houston State University Department of Physics 11 
Appendix A 

Flight Operations 

Sam Houston State University Department of Physics operates the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus with the 

following restrictions. 

Flight Restrictions 

The DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus requires both a Pilot in Command and a Visual Observer for both preflight checks and flight. The following restrictions are stringently followed. 

1. No operations are permitted without the presence of both a Pilot in Command and a Visual 

Observer able to communicate by voice in pre-flight check and during flight. 

2. The Pilot in Command must hold a current Private, Recreational, or Sport Pilot certificate and a 

current FAA third-class airman medical certificate or a valid U.S. driver's license issued by a 

state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, a territory, a possession, or the Federal government. 

3. The Visual Observer must hold a current FAA third-class airman medical certificate or a valid 

U.S. driver's license issued by a state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, a territory, a 

possession, or the Federal government. 

4. The Pilot in Command must have received training in the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus and have 

as a minimum conducted three takeoffs (launch) and three landings (recovery) in the DJI 

Phantom 2 Vision Plus within the previous 90 days. 

5. We will not fly the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus over densely populated areas, open area assembly 

of people, or within 5NM of an airport or heliport without prior approval. 

6. The Pilot in Command will thoroughly brief the property owner and Visual Observer for the 

planned flight and any associated risks. 

7. The Pilot in Command must perform a pre-flight inspection before each flight to assure the DJI 

Phantom 2 Vision Plus is in safe condition for operation. 

8. All flights must be conducted in Class G airspace, at an airspeed less than 15 m/s, at no more 

than 400ft. AGL, and no further than 1/4NM-3/8NM from the Pilot in Command. 

9. All flights will be restricted to day light and weather conditions equivalent to VFR. 

Pre-flight Checklist 

We will use the manufacturer's pre-flight check list as follows verbatim. 5 

1. Assure the Remote Controller, Smart Battery, Range Extender, and smartphone are fully 

charged. 

2. Propellers are mounted correctly. 

3. Gimbal clamp has been removed. 

5 DJI, Phantom 2 Vision+ User Manual V 1.1 (Shenzhen, China: DJI, 2014), 37. A later version of the manual, Phanlom 2 

Vision+ User Manual (EN) V 1.8 2015-01-30, is also available as a download at http://www.dji.com/product/phantom-2-

vision-plus/info#downloads. Accessed January 28, 2016. 

Sam Houston State University Department of Physics 12 
4. Damping absorbers are in good condition, not broken or worn. 

5. Anti-drop kits have been mounted correctly. 

6. Camera lens cap has been removed. 

7. Micro-SD card has been inserted if necessary. 

8. Gimbal is functioning as normal. 

9. Motors can start and are functioning as normal. 

10. DJI Vision App can connect to the camera. 

Take Off and Landing Operations 

We follow the manufacturer's Takeoff and Landing procedures as follows. 

I. Flight Environment6 

1. Do not use the aircraft in severe weather conditions These include wind speed exceeding 

category 4, snow, rain and smog. 

2. Fly in open fields as high buildings or steel structures may affect the accuracy of onboard 

compass. 

3. Keep the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus away from obstacles, crowds, high voltage power lines, 

trees or bodies of when when in flight. 

4. Reduce the chance of electromagnetic interference by not flying in areas with high levels of 

electromagnetism, including base stations or radio transmission towers. 

5. The DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus cannot operate within the polar areas. 

6. Do not fly the aircraft within no-fly zones specified by local laws and regulations. 

II. Takeoff7 

1. Choose the Takeoff/Landing area in an area free of concrete or metal. Otherwise, the Compass 

cannot be calibrated correctly, and the Failsafe mode will not function properly. 

2. Calibrate the compass in every new location to set the Failsafe Mode following DJI procedures. 

Refer to Calibrating the Compass (Page 3 8) for more details. 

3. Place the Phantom 2 Vision Plus on open flat ground with battery indicators facing towards you. 

4. Set both switches S 1 and S2 on the Remote Controller to Position 1. Refer to Remote Controller 

(Page 25) for more details. 

5. Power on the Remote Controller and Range Extender, then the Smart Flight Battery. 

6. Launch the DJI Vision App and bind it with your smartphone. Then enter the camera preview 

page. 

6 DJI, Phantom 2 Vision+ User Manual V 1.1 (Shenzhen, China: DJI, 2014 ), 37. A later version of the manual, Phantom 2 

Vision+ User Manual (EN) V 1.8 2015-01-30, is also available as a download at http://www.dji.com/product/phantom-2-

vision-plus/info#downloads. Accessed January 28, 20 16. 7 DJI, Phantom 2 Vision+ User Manual V J .1 (Shenzhen, China: DJ I, 20 14), 40. A later version of the manual, Phantom 2 

Vision+ User Manual (EN) V J .8 2015-01-30, is also available as a download at http://www.dj i.com/product/phantom-2-

vision-plus/info#downloads. Accessed January 28, 2016. 

Sam Houston State University Department of Physics 13 
7. When the GPS navigation system finds 6 or more GPS satellites the Flight Control System locks 

its home points and the Rear LED Flight Indicators blink a slow green indicating aircraft may 

takeoff and follow normal flight. 

8. Wait until the UAS Rear LED Flight Indicator blinks green indicating it has initialized and is 

Ready to Fly. If it flashes yellow, it is in Ready to Fly (non-GPS) mode and will require more 

careful flight. Execute the Combination Stick Command (CSC)8 to start motors. 

9. Push the throttle up slowly to take off. Refer to Remote Controller (Page 25) for more details. 

10. Shoot photos and videos using DJI Vision App. Refer to DJI Vision App Usage (Page 48) for 

more details. 

III. Landing9 

1. To land, hover over a level surface, avoiding concrete or metal, and gently pull down on the 

throttle to descend. 

2. After landing, execute the CSC command. The Pilot in Command can use one of two methods to 

stop the motors. In the first method, the PIC pushes the throttle down and executes the CSC 

command. In the second, the PIC pushes the throttle down and holds it down. The motors stop 

after 3 seconds. 

3. Tum off the Smart Battery, Range Extender, and Remote Controller. 

Failsafe Function 

When the Remote Controller loses connection with the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus in flight, the Failsafe 

mode takes over to automatically fly the aircraft to home to reduce the possibility of injury or damage. 

When the Rear LED Flight Indicator blinks yellow rapidly in flight, the aircraft has entered the Failsafe 

mode. When the Rear LED Flight Indicator slowly or rapidly blinks red during flight, a low battery level 

is indicated and the Pilot in Command should fly the aircraft back to home. The Failsafe mode will 

activate for the following situations. 

1. The Remote Controller shuts off. 

2. The aircraft flies beyond the communication range between the Remote Controller and the 

aircraft radio transmitter. 

3. An obstacle between the Remote Controller and the aircraft interferes with communication. 

4. Interference causes a problem with the remote controller. 

8 The Combination Stick Command starts motors rather than pushing the stick up. Push both sticks to their bottom corners, 

right bottom corner for left stick and left bottom corner for right stick 9 OJ I, Phantom 2 Vision+ User Manual V 1.1 (Shenzhen, China: DJI, 2014), 40. A later version of the manual, Phantom 2 

Vision+ User Manual (EN) V 1.8 2015-01-30, is also available as a download at http://www.dji.com/product/phantom-2-

vision-plus/info#downloads. Accessed January 28, 2016. 

Sam Houston State University Department of Physics 14 
Lost Communications 

Any visual observer, sensor operator, or anyone else assigned the responsibility to provide 

collision avoidance must maintain communication with the UAS pilot. In the event communication 

between the observer, sensor operator or anyone else assigned the responsibility to provide collision 

avoidance loses communication with the UAS pilot, the UAS pilot will immediately return the UAS to 

Home point and land to avoid injury or damage. 

Under no circumstances will the UAS pilot fly the UAS without first setting the Fail Safe mode 

and the GPS coordinates for the Home point. An observer will stand alongside the UAS pilot to monitor 

flight conditions using the DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus DJI Vision App on the Smartphone. Should the 

DJI Vision App show the loss of GPS, low battery, or flight obstacles, the observer will inform the UAS 

Pilot without hesitation, and the UAS pilot will immediately return the UAS to Home point and land to 

avoid injury or damage. 

When observers are stationed in other areas to visually monitor the UAS flight, the UAS pilot 

and the observer monitoring the DJI Vision App alongside the UAS pilot will maintain visual contact 

with them. Should the UAS pilot or the observer monitoring the DJI Vision App alongside the UAS 

pilot lose visual contact with any observer, the UAS pilot will immediately return the UAS to Home 

point and land to avoid injury or damage. 

Under no circumstances will the UAS pilot operate the UAS outside VLOS. Should the UAS 

pilot or any observer lose UAS VLOS, the UAS pilot will immediately return the UAS to Home point 

and land to avoid injury or damage. 

Lost Link Procedure(s) 

The Phantom will enter Failsafe mode when its connection to the Remote Controller is lost. The 

Flight Control System will automatically control the aircraft to return to home and land to prevent injury 

or damage. 

Home Point: When the Phantom enters 'Ready to Fly' from the 'Ready to Fly status (non-GPS)', 

the GPS coordinates will be recorded and set as the Home point. 

• When Remote Controller signal is lost, the aircraft will return to the recorded Home point 

coordinates and land. 

• Home point coordinates are used to calculate the horizontal distance ofthe aircraft (shown as 

"Distance" on the GUI of the DJI Vision App). 

• After successfully recording the home point, rear LED flight indicators blink fast green. 

Dynamic Home Point: The Home point will be reset to position of the mobile device at specific 

time intervals. 

• Fnahle dynamic Home point in DJI Vision app or Phantom 2 Assistant. 

• Dynamic Home point is only available to the GPS-enabled mobile device. Turn on GPS and data 

service to obtain higher accuracy of the mobile device position. 

• Dynamic Home point is useful in situations when you are in motion and require a Home point 

that is different from the takeoff point. 

When Will Failsafe Activate? 

1. The Remote Controller is powered off. 

Sam Houston State University Department of Physics 15 
2. The Phantom has flown out of effective remote controller range. 

3. The signal between the Remote Controller and the Phantom has been blocked. 

4. There is interference causing a signal problem with the Remote Controller. 

Failsafe Procedure 

Initiating the Failsafe mode from different flying statuses will result in different landing 

processes. 

Ready to Fly (non-GPS) - Automatic landing 

The Flight Control System will keep the aircraft level during descent and landing. It may drift 

during the descent and landing process. 

Ready to Fly- Automatic go home and land 

The Flight Control System will automatically control the aircraft to fly back to the Home point 

and land. 

Caution: 

• To insure the aircraft's successful return to home after Failsafe activation, aim to fly in Ready to 

Fly mode. 

• The Phantom will automatically descend during the Failsafe process if there are less than 6 GPS 

satellites detected for more than 20 seconds. 

• When the aircraft is landing automatically, users can control the aircraft's position and altitude if 

the remote controller signal is recovered. 

• Aircraft cannot navigate around vertical obstacles on its return home course during Failsafe. 

However, you can set return home altitude value in Phantom assistance to avoid hitting vertical 

obstacles through DJI Phantom Assistant. 

Note: Quickly flipping the S2 switch of the Remote Controller from top to bottom 5 times or more 

will reset the current aircraft position as a new Home point. Rear LED flight indicators will blink 

green rapidly when successful. 

How to regain control: 

• When the S 1 switch is switched to Position-1, toggle the S 1 switch to any other position once to 

regain control. If the Remote Controller signal is recovered, control is returned to the pilot. 

• Regain control as soon as signal is recovered. 

Low Battery Level Warning Function 

If the DJI smart battery is depleted to a point that may affect the safe return of the aircraft, the 

low battery level warning notifies users to take action. Users are advised to land the aircraft immediately 

when they observe these warnings. The thresholds for these warnings are automatically determined 

based on the current aircraft altitude and its distance from the Home point. 

When these warnings are triggered, please bring the aircraft back to the Home point or land to 

avoid losing power during flight." 10 

10 DJI, DJJ Phantom 2 Vision+ U\'er Manual v. 1.8, 27-28. http://www.dji.com/product/phantom-2-vision-plus/download. 

Accessed June 16,2015. 

Sam Houston State University Department of Physics 16 
Appendix B 

User Manuals 

The DJI Phantom 2 Vision Plus user manual may be downloaded at 

http://www.dji.com/product/phantom-2-vision-plus/info#downloads. The DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ User 

Manual Vl.l contains the procedures for aircraft inspection, maintenance, pre-flight check, flight 

operations, and emergency procedures. The manual can be provided on request. 

Sam Houston State University Department of Physics 17